Hunger Task Force kicks off summer meals program

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Summertime brings great weather, but it also exposes a disparity for some families in our community.

Hunger Task Force is kicking off its Summer Meals Program to make sure Milwaukee children stay fed.

Hunger Task Force says childhood hunger is at an all-time high.

The summer meals program kicked off Wednesday at Southgate Playfield on Milwaukee's south side. 

"Families are going to be receiving, and kids specifically, are going to be receiving the meals that they would normally depend on during the school year," said Isabel Miranda, the Hunger Task Force child nutrition educator.

Over the summer, they plan to serve more than 800-thousand meals to Milwaukee children.

There will be nearly 90 sites at parks around the city, where families can go. They'll be marked with a bright green sign that says "Kids Eat Free Summer Meals Here."

 "Make sure that your children are going out, having a great time at the parks," said Sherrie Tussler, Hunger Task Force executive director. "It's safe, they can play. There will be recreation services."

These are some of the many organizations that will offer support, including Milwaukee Public Schools.

"We are going to be serving student meals at about 75 sites for summer schools, community learning centers, camps and twilight centers," said Omer Abdullah, nutrition services director for Milwaukee Public Schools.

Families can get summer meals in person, by pre-order or through a home delivery service.

"I think it's an awesome opportunity to really understand where people are at in their life. Of course, you can't assume who needs resources, who doesn't, but it's a way to connect with people," said Magaly Velazquez, a Milwaukee mom. 

Hunger Task Force also has an online map to help you find the meal sites.